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Standards

Introduction

Standards help make the railways safer, more efficient and more sustainable. Agreed by the industry, standards are developed and maintained by RSSB. They may be mandatory or optional, depending on type; and describe a common way of working for all railway undertakings in areas where they apply.

They clarify how standards help rail companies address their legal and other obligations and describe the procedure to request a deviation from, or change to, a standard.

Standards Development & Governance

The general direction for standards has been a transition from domestic to European to International standards, where beneficial. We will also capture good practice that is unique to the GB rail industry.
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Explore the direction of travel for standards and related activities to address existing and new challenges, and opportunities.
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Discover how this committee supports the effective application of standards within the railway sector.
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Learn how your input can help ensure a safer, more efficient, and sustainable railway. Find FAQs, watch our video, and get involved today.
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Learn about the governance framework for railway standards management and guidance on its implementation.
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Learn about their work to promote good practice and review assurance activities.
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Using & Managing Standards

Standards help rail companies to address legal and other obligations. Using standards enables organisations to improve performance and manage risks.
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Standards support track, trains, bridges, tunnels, signalling, communication, energy, plant and operations in rail.
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Information on finding and staying on top of changes to industry-agreed standards, rules and best practice.
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Information on key highlights and quarterly changes to the standards published in the standards catalogue.
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Standards Resources & Tools

Railway Group Standards Rail Industry Standards and Guidance Notes that cover subjects from platform design to the Control of Electromagnetic Fields at Work Regulations and Common Safety Methods. For full details search the Standards catalogue.
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This page provides self-assessment tests to help you gain a better understanding of standards.
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The RSSB rule book app contains sets of clear instructions which rail staff must follow in certain safety critical scenarios in railway operation.
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Watch our video

See how easy it is to find the standards you need. Watch our video on using the Standards Catalogue.

Haven’t found what you’re looking for?
Get in touch with our expert for more information.
Joe Bull - Regulatory and Policy Specialist
Joe Bull
https://customer-portal.rssb.co.uk
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